The National Mediterranean Botanical Conservatory of Porquerolles

Created in 1979, the National Mediterranean Botanical Conservatory of Porquerolles aims to preserve the biodiversity in the Mediterranean area and its many endangered plant species. A mission that it has been pursuing for over 30 years.

Located in Hyeres, sponsored by the state and governed by the Port-Cros National Park, the National Mediterranean Botanical Conservatory of Porquerolles has a major and important role related to the protection of biodiversity in the island’s traditional Provençal landscapes and its 700 varieties of Mediterranean fruit trees. Since 1979 it has been developing this diverse mission and today it also cover the regions of Languedoc-Roussillon, Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Bouches-du-Rhône and Vaucluse: a vast territory covering no less than 47,000 km²!

In order to carry out its objectives and cover the whole territory as much as possible, the National Mediterranean Botanical Conservatory of Porquerolles has progressively set up multiple antennas located in different cities including Antibes, Avignon and Montpellier. On-site, teams of botanists work directly with locals and study both the distribution of plants and conservation issues. Between the cold room and freeze-drying laboratory, the National Mediterranean Botanical Conservatory of Porquerolles today conserves more than 1,800 species and subspecies, and also makes available to the public an important database listing more than 2 million plant observations. Which encourages the sharing of knowledge and supports the preservation of the native flora!

To extend the summer, what better than to treat yourself to a special shared moment enjoying an appetizer with Provencal flavours? L'Occitane reveals some authentic regional recipes for finger food that your friends and family will love.

After the holidays, do you dream of retaining all the benefits of summer, including the beautiful golden complexion you've gained from lazing in the sun? L'Occitane reveals the right beauty routine to ensure that you glow into autumn.

Hidden in a quiet cove or tucked away just steps from the city, Provence's beaches are every bit as lovely as those of any exotic destination. Focus on these stretches of soft sand and azure water, where you can while away the hours by the sea.

Brimming with flowers or deep in shade, at the water's edge or perched on a mountaintop, terraces are among the best spots to be in summer. L'Occitane reveals the top places in Provence to while away a sunny afternoon.